I am planning on applying to MBA programs this Fall for Fall '16 matriculation. I think I have a fairly strong profile (Top 15 Undergrad, 3.95 GPA, 750 GMAT, 2 years work experience at Deloitte S&O, 1.5 years work experience in Corp. Strategy @ F500 retailer) and think I have solid chances at my targets (primarily M7). That said, I don't have tons of longstanding extracurriculars or intangibles (family business etc.) that will make me jump off the page vs. my cohort (white male consultants with solid stats).
Given that I am ~8 months away from submitting applications, I want to do whatever I can do to differentiate myself (even in small ways). A few thoughts I have at the moment are below, some of which I am already moving on. Would appreciate input on whether my current ideas are worthwhile and particularly want to hear new ideas that others have tried/considered.
1) Community service - I am a volunteer SAT tutor, spending 2 hours per week tutoring recent immigrants. Program runs 7 months, so it is a significant commitment. Have driven measurable improvement in their test scores. Also do volunteer tax prep for lower income individuals (~40 hours during tax season).
2) Engaging with current students and alums - I have a decent network of friends and acquaintances at or recently graduated from MBA business schools">M7 schools. I am planning to reconnect with many of them to discuss their experiences. Beyond informational value, is there anything that I can use these connections for to improve my apps?
3) Engaging with schools - will attend info sessions and in NYC and visit most of my target schools. Is it kind of thing where attending one event will check the "he showed interest" box, or will attending multiple events help? Will getting/staying in touch with Admissions staff make a difference?
4) Researching schools - will scour the web to understand how each school positions itself and how to answer the "Why X school" question. Should allow me to write good tailored essays that provide a compelling story as to why I want to attend, down to specific classes and professors that draw me.
So, what else should I be thinking about? Thanks in advance for any advice!
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